GP3: Evans thanks Ellinas, his ''lifesaver''

By winning race 2 in Monza after a great battle with championship contender Daniel Abt, Tio Ellinas offered to Mitch Evans the 2012 GP3 title.

Evans was leading the championship classification by far before both final rounds in Monza, but he could be mathematically beaten if he would not score any point, and in case of Daniel Abt’s double victory in Italy. After he secured victory in race 1 while Evans was forced to retire, Abt almost managed to clinch the title as he was leading race, before Ellinas made his move for the lead with two laps remaining. Evans, who was running last after he had to stop following a puncture, did not miss the battle for the lead.

Mitch Evans, 2012 GP3 Champion. (Photo: GP3 Series)

“I was trying to keep an eye on the TV screens, Evans said. I guess when Daniel got into the lead the team tried to keep as quiet as possible. I knew Abt was leading when I had my puncture, so emotionally I was heartbroken. I was watching Tio on the TV screen at every chance I had. I probably wasn't paying enough attention to my driving! I was screaming in my helmet 'Go Tio' as I knew that was my only hope for the title. I think I will be buying Tio a few drinks tonight. I went to see him and say thank you, he was my lifesaver."

“I have no words to describe this, Evans added. It's a dream come true. I've sacrificed my whole life to come to Europe and it's so rewarding to win a title in my second year in Europe."

Mitch Evans, 18 year old driver from New Zealand, ran the 2012 GP3 championship with team Arden, and is backed by Red Bull F1 driver Mark Webber.